2025 Mitsubishi RVR vs. 2025 Hyundai Kona: Compact Crossovers Face Off in Peterborough

In Peterborough, where winding roads meet serene trails like those in Jackson Park, drivers want a crossover that balances comfort, practicality, and confidence. The 2025 Mitsubishi RVR and 2025 Hyundai Kona are both compact SUVs eager to claim that role. Let’s see how they measure up for those weekend trips to the Kawarthas or the daily commute through town.
Performance and Efficiency

The 2025 Mitsubishi RVR SE AWC uses a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine pushing out 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. While it’s not the fastest sprinter off the line, it’s steady and reliable for city driving and cruising the highway. Fuel economy comes in at 10.3 L/100 km in the city and 8.3 L/100 km on the highway, with a combined rating of 9.4 L/100 km.
By contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Preferred AWD with the Trend Package brings a bit more punch with 190 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque from its 2.0-litre engine. Despite the extra power, it’s slightly thriftier, using 9.6 L/100 km in the city and 8.2 L/100 km on the highway, for a combined 9.0 L/100 km. Drivers who like a bit more zip might prefer the Kona, though the RVR remains solid for those who prioritize balance.
Space and Comfort

On the inside, both crossovers offer practical cabins, but the Kona edges ahead in cargo space with a range of 723 to 1,803 litres compared to the RVR’s 614 to 1,402 litres. For growing families or gear-heavy trips to Beavermead Park, that extra room might matter. The Kona also boasts standard synthetic leather seats and a two-zone automatic climate system, while the RVR sticks to upgraded cloth and a single-zone setup. However, the RVR’s simplicity might appeal to those who prefer fewer tech distractions.
Safety and Warranty Confidence
Safety ratings tell an interesting story. The 2025 RVR shines with a strong side-impact rating and an overall NHTSA score of 4.0, plus seven airbags, offering good peace of mind. The Kona, while providing slightly fewer airbags (six), does achieve strong frontal crash ratings and includes advanced conveniences like a remote trunk release.
When it comes to warranty, Mitsubishi leads with an impressive 10-year or 160,000 km powertrain warranty, doubling the Kona’s 5-year or 100,000 km coverage. For Peterborough drivers thinking long-term, the RVR’s warranty can be a significant advantage, especially for those clocking frequent kilometres to places like Toronto or exploring Northern Ontario.
Choosing Your Perfect Crossover for Life in Peterborough
Both the 2025 Mitsubishi RVR and the 2025 Hyundai Kona bring distinct strengths to Peterborough’s roads. The Kona delivers livelier performance and extra cargo capacity, while the RVR wins on warranty coverage and keeps things refreshingly simple. Whether your adventures take you downtown or out to scenic provincial parks, either SUV can fit the bill, but the Mitsubishi RVR makes a compelling case for drivers seeking long-term peace of mind.